A fire at a no-kill animal shelter in Killeen claimed the lives of more than 100 dogs and cats Sunday morning.
Fortunately, news of the fire at the Second Chance Adoption Center spread fast.
So much so, that it's hard for the President of the Central Texas Humane Society George Grammas to get a free minute from all the people calling wanting to help. The Central Texas Humane Society operates the shelter.
"It's truly amazing to see the tremendous outpouring of support," Grammas said.
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Volunteers
While the staff copes with the devastating loss, News 8's Chie Saito tells us how the community is helping the animals that did survive.
 
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Grammas said 99 cats and 12 dogs died from smoke inhalation. Dozens of other animals, however, were not injured.
"We had up to 300 volunteers here Sunday. They scrubbed walls, cleaned walls, walked dogs," Grammas said.
For employees like Heather Sharp, who knows each animal by name, the deaths are especially hard to deal with. Although, she said she knows it could have been worse.
Grammas said as the only no-kill shelter in the area, the center is working to open its doors by the end of the week.
"This is what we're here for. The animals themselves who are innocent and need somebody to take care of them," he said.
Authorities believe Sunday's fire at the Second Chance Animal Shelter may have started in the staff kitchen area.
Grammas said it may have been an electrical fire, which could cause thousands of dollars in damage.
Organizers said they are in great need of cash donations. To donate or for more information, visit CenTexHumaneSociety.com.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
